Francis Allen (regicide) facts for kids

Francis Allen (born around 1583 – died September 6, 1658) was an important English person who managed money, worked in politics, and was involved in the trial of King Charles I. He supported the Parliament during the English Civil War against the King.

Allen was a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, which was a group for goldsmiths in London. He became known for speaking up against rules that wanted members to move their homes. Because of his strong opinions, he was temporarily suspended from the group.

A Role in Parliament

In April 1642, Allen was chosen to be a member of the Long Parliament for a place called Cockermouth. The Long Parliament was a very important meeting of English lawmakers that lasted for many years.

Helping with the Civil War

During the English Civil War, Allen played a key role in managing the money for the Parliament's side. He helped make sure the Parliament had the funds it needed to fight the war. In 1644, he also took part in a protest against a leader named the Earl of Essex. Later, he became a religious leader, known as a Presbyterian elder, in William Strong's church.

The Trial of King Charles I

After the war, a special court called the High Court of Justice for the trial of Charles I was set up to try King Charles I. Francis Allen was chosen as one of the 135 people, called commissioners, who were part of this court.

Allen's Involvement

Allen was present when the court decided that King Charles I should be put to death. Even though he didn't sign the official paper that ordered the King's death, he helped with the money side of things for the event. He arranged payments and prepared the financial records related to it.

Later Life and Legacy

Francis Allen was also an active member of the Rump Parliament, which was the name given to the part of the Long Parliament that remained after some members were removed. However, he was strongly criticized by Oliver Cromwell during a time when Cromwell took control of the government.

Retirement and Death

After Cromwell's actions, Allen decided to step away from public life. He passed away in September 1658, just three days after Oliver Cromwell died. Because of his involvement in the King's trial, his property was not protected by a special law after the King's son, Charles II, returned to power.